The 2024 NFL trade deadline is now behind us, as are the evaluations for various deals made.

Assigning grades right after trades can be tricky since the real outcomes often take a while to surface. However, some trades clearly stand out as beneficial for the teams involved, whether in the immediate or long-term context.

YSL News Sports has assessed all the major trades that occurred from the start of the season up until Tuesday, offering evaluations for each team in the notable transactions.

Tre’Davious White Trade Grades

Ravens receive: CB Tre’Davious White, 2027 seventh-round draft pick

Rams receive: 2026 seventh-round draft pick

Ravens Grade: C+

This trade seems more like a low-risk attempt. If White manages to become a valuable asset in a struggling secondary, that’s a win. Otherwise, Baltimore won’t face major regrets over what they gave up. The Ravens perhaps should have targeted a pass rusher instead, but their tight salary cap may have limited their options.

Rams Grade: C+

The minimal draft assets sent to Los Angeles indicate the Rams were simply accommodating a respected player. White had to step in due to injuries, but his role was no longer clear given the current defensive lineup. Parting ways was necessary for both sides.

Preston Smith Trade Grades

Steelers receive: DE/OLB Preston Smith

Packers receive: 2025 seventh-round draft pick

Steelers: B-

With Watt and Highsmith showing strong performances, the Steelers wanted to ensure their depth was solid, especially with Herbig out due to injury. Although Smith is nearing the end of his prime, he could provide crucial rest for the starters, making this trade potentially worthwhile for Pittsburgh.

Packers: B-

For Green Bay, this trade doesn’t seem focused on getting a major return but rather on clearing space for other players. With the first-round selection of Van Ness, it was clear Smith’s days were numbered. The transaction gives the staff room to adjust their pass rusher rotation and lets Gutekunst gain something for a player who may have been released in the offseason.

Mike Williams Trade Grades

Steelers receive: WR Mike Williams

Jets receive: 2025 fifth-round draft pick

Steelers: C+

A fifth-round pick is a modest cost, yet it’s still a price for just nine games of output. This trade aims to enhance a passing game that has shifted with Wilson as the new starter. However, the expectation of significant contributions from a 30-year-old receiver recovering from an ACL injury may be unrealistic. Pittsburgh will need to see if Williams can still deliver in the air, though the chances of a drastic improvement against top AFC teams seem slim.

Jets: B-

The Jets’ inability to integrate Williams into their plans amid a playoff push illustrates a disconnect between the player and the team. At least GM Joe Douglas managed to retrieve something after the one-year, $15 million contract given to Williams earlier. With Lazard on the injured reserve, the focus will shift to Wilson and Adams for the Jets’ passing game, independent of Williams’ presence.

Marshon Lattimore Trade Grades

Commanders receive: CB Marshon Lattimore, 2025 fifth-round pick

Saints receive: 2025 third-round pick, 2025 fourth-round pick, 2025 sixth-round pick

Commanders: B+

This trade brings in a talented cornerback who excels in coverage with a solid track record. Despite the Saints’ issues this season, Lattimore is performing well statistically, making this a valuable addition for the Commanders. Though the draft picks exchanged seem steep, acquiring a proven player is a reasonable gamble, especially considering Lattimore’s consistent performance advantages over potential rookies at that position.

back in his more comfortable spot in the slot – and be more than just a short-term solution. His health might be a crucial factor, as Lattimore has missed 19 games since the beginning of the 2022 season and is currently dealing with a hamstring issue. Moreover, he is set to earn a significant $36.5 million over the final two years of his contract after this season, though Washington is positioned well to handle this financial hit.

Saints: B+

The transformation continues in New Orleans. The Saints didn’t have many valuable assets to offer for extra draft picks, making the decision to let go of Lattimore a wise choice. These picks will be beneficial for a team that will need to depend on rookie contracts as it manages salary cap challenges in the years ahead. With Alontae Taylor and Kool-Aid McKinstry, New Orleans is in a favorable position with its cornerbacks for the future.

Jonathan Mingo trade evaluations

Cowboys receive: WR Jonathan Mingo, 2025 seventh-round pick

Panthers receive: 2025 fourth-round pick

Cowboys: D-

Desperation is not a great look for Jerry Jones. While the Cowboys rightly aim to rejuvenate an underperforming offense that ranks 22nd in yards per play (5.2), it’s hard to see how a receiver who has been surpassed by undrafted rookie Jalen Coker will significantly impact a team with a 3-5 record, especially with Dak Prescott expected to be sidelined for at least four games due to a hamstring injury. The return of a fourth-round draft pick is puzzling, as there was little indication that such a high price was necessary. Although Mingo might hold potential for improvement in a new environment, Jones’ comments prior to the trade suggest the Cowboys are doubling down on a previous misjudgment instead of focusing on actual performance.

Panthers: A

After Carolina surprised many with a modest trade for Diontae Johnson, general manager Dan Morgan somehow secured even better draft assets for the struggling Mingo. The second-year receiver has been virtually invisible in the offense lately, failing to register a catch in the last three games. Moving on from Mingo is a positive step for the franchise, allowing them to recover from a potentially poor decision made by the former management. While dealing Adam Thielen seems unlikely at this point given the ongoing changes, Carolina can manage for the remainder of the season with the 34-year-old and Coker. Looking ahead, the future now appears somewhat brighter.

Za’Darius Smith trade evaluations

Lions receive: DE Za’Darius Smith, 2026 seventh-round draft pick

Browns receive: 2025 fifth-round draft pick, 2026 sixth-round draft pick

Lions grade: A-

With the 7-1 Lions enjoying their best start since 1956 and emerging as a real contender for their first Super Bowl, acquiring a starting defensive end to fill in for Aidan Hutchinson was essential for Brad Holmes. In Smith, 32, they found one of the best options available for a quick fix. Although he likely won’t replicate Hutchinson’s remarkable performance—who had seven and a half sacks, contributing significantly to the team’s total—Smith, with five sacks this year, is expected to pressure the opposition while also meeting Campbell’s requirements for strong run defense. Defensive coordinator Aaron Glenn may need to get creative with blitzing, given that Detroit ranks sixth in blitz rate this season at 29.8%, according to Pro Football Reference. Nonetheless, this trade offers tremendous value.

Browns grade: C

For a top player still available at the trade deadline, this return seems quite small. Perhaps the interest for a half-season rental was limited, but it’s surprising that a proven player at a key position didn’t attract more teams eager to bolster their playoff chances. Regardless, offloading Smith was wise for a franchise needing to stockpile draft picks after the drain the Deshaun Watson trade has had on its roster.

Baron Browning trade evaluations

Cardinals receive: LB Baron Browning

Broncos receive: 2025 sixth-round draft pick

Cardinals grade: B+

Arizona’s pass rush has struggled throughout the season, registering the worst pass rush win rate (27%) in the NFL over the first eight games, as per ESPN. However, they managed to surprise in a recent game against the Chicago Bears, recording six sacks in a 29-9 win. This performance was an anomaly, as 16 players contributed to the pressure, showcasing an offense that had trouble adapting to their scheme.

It may seem unusual for the Cardinals to be buyers at this stage, especially for a half-season addition, considering the overall state of their squad. But a sixth-round pick isn’t a steep cost, especially with a division title on the line. Adding Browning presents a clear upgrade at a necessary position. If he stays healthy, he could significantly elevate a front seven that lacks star power, particularly after B.J. Ojulari and Dennis Gardeck suffered torn ACL injuries.

Broncos grade: B

This trade yields a modest return for a former third-round draft pick. However, insider information disclosed to YSL News Sports’ Tyler Dragon confirmed that outside linebacker Jonathon Cooper recently signed a four-year, $60 million extension with the Broncos. Given Nik Bonitto’s impressive season, it appears Browning has no long-term future in Denver after this season. Unless there’s an injury, the Broncos’ top-rated pass rush—leading the NFL in pass rush win rate (57%) after eight weeks—should remain largely unaffected.

Cam Robinson trade evaluations

Vikings receive: OT Cam Robinson, 2026 conditional seventh-round draft pick

Jaguars receive: 2026 conditional fifth-round draft pick

Vikings grade: C+

This move seems a bit strange for general manager Kwesi Adofo-Mensah, especially considering he has avoided the “all-in” mentality that some other front offices have adopted. True, Christian Darrisaw’s season-ending knee injury has left Minnesota needing a solid left tackle. However, Robinson, who will turn 30 soon, has only been a moderately acceptable starter. The Vikings appeared to have balanced out after their team started strong with a 5-0 record, and this trade felt somewhat like a gamble on the future for a squad that appears unlikely to contend for the conference title.

Jaguars Grade: B

Considering the circumstances, the return for an impending free agent who had been benched for Walker Little was rather generous. Little is expected to effectively protect Trevor Lawrence for the remainder of the season. This trade marks an unceremonious end for one of the team’s longest-serving players, and Jacksonville would have likely been wiser to end their commitment to Robinson much earlier during his nearly eight-year tenure. Nevertheless, the franchise managed to make this decision before the season concluded, avoiding dependence on the compensatory pick system.

Diontae Johnson Trade Grades

Ravens Receive: WR Diontae Johnson, 2025 sixth-round pick

Panthers Receive: 2025 fifth-round pick

Ravens Grade: A

Initially, it seemed like Baltimore wouldn’t be active at the trade deadline due to their tight salary cap. However, GM Eric DeCosta recognized a great opportunity. Even though the Ravens have been performing well offensively, acquiring Johnson adds an extra weapon who could thrive on a contending team. Considering the modest cost, taking a chance on Johnson is a worthwhile move with the potential for a significant reward.

Panthers Grade: D

Carolina might have been motivated to trade Johnson following his remarks that “I can’t play every position on the field and make every play” after a 40-7 defeat to the Washington Commanders. However, for a team struggling with talent, parting ways with a key player should yield far better returns. With the wide receiver market reacting to several notable trades, and the Panthers still covering a significant portion of Johnson’s salary according to The Athletic, this trade seems to have missed the mark.

Joshua Uche Trade Grades

Chiefs Receive: LB Joshua Uche

Patriots Receive: 2026 sixth-round draft pick

Chiefs Grade: B

Enhancing the pass rush affordably is a challenge for any team, but the two-time reigning champions appear to have succeeded in this deal. Uche, standing at 6’1″ and weighing 240 lbs, was limited in playing time with New England, never exceeding 38% of defensive snaps in a season. However, he has made an impression as a dynamic edge rusher, recording 11½ sacks in 2022 and continuing to be effective in generating pressure, even with just two sacks this year. Given Kansas City’s struggles against the quarterback, any added help will be appreciated. Defensive coordinator Steve Spagnuolo can continue to utilize Uche in favorable matchups, potentially giving the team another advantage in the upcoming games.

Patriots Grade: B-

As New England prepares to be active in free agency this upcoming offseason, they may not have received a compensatory pick had Uche departed after his one-year contract. Thus, this trade holds some significant value for the Patriots. Nonetheless, it’s disappointing given the potential shown by Uche, a former second-round pick, even if it was only in brief moments.

Ernest Jones IV Trade Grades

Seahawks Receive: LB Ernest Jones IV

Titans Receive: LB Jerome Baker, 2025 fourth-round pick

Seahawks Grade: B-

Bringing Jones back to the NFC West could be beneficial for both the Seahawks and the former Los Angeles Rams player. Jones has the potential to improve a defense that has struggled against the run, and defensive coordinator Mike Macdonald could effectively utilize his abilities to blitz as well. However, trading a mid-round pick for an upgrade at a position that isn’t among the most pivotal raises concerns, especially since Jones’s contract is expiring. With Seattle’s playoff prospects looking uncertain, it might have been wiser to wait to address this need through free agency or the draft.

Titans Grade: B+

Bringing in Jones in August might have seemed excessive for a team attempting to expedite its rebuilding process by acquiring seasoned players from other teams. This new trade can be seen as a proper adjustment, as securing a fourth-round pick could be vital for a roster with numerous areas needing attention come spring. Kudos to GM Ran Carthon for this decision.

DeAndre Hopkins Trade Grades

Chiefs Receive: WR DeAndre Hopkins

Titans Receive: 2025 conditional fifth-round pick

Chiefs Grade: A-

This trade appeared far too practical to actually materialize. There were moments when it looked unlikely, with speculation that the Titans were reluctant to part with their No. 2 receiver, and Hopkins not expressing any dissatisfaction with his status. Yet, GM Brett Veach successfully facilitated a deal for another receiving threat for the third straight year before the trade deadline. One can expect that Hopkins will have a greater impact than Kadarius Toney and Mecole Hardman. The Chiefs clearly needed another weapon after Rashee Rice suffered a season-ending knee injury, which added to the complications for a receiving group already missing Marquise “Hollywood” Brown (shoulder) until at least the playoffs. Although Hopkins may not return to his earlier elite form, as long as he can continue to excel at contested catches and take advantage of many targets on shorter routes, he can significantly enhance the Chiefs’ revamped offensive strategy.

Titans Grade: B

GM Ran Carthon deserves recognition for maintaining a strategic viewpoint rather than hastily trading Hopkins away. While it made sense to have a receiver like Hopkins, who excels at contested catches, as a complement to Calvin Ridley’s separation skills, and to provide support for the struggling second-year quarterback Will Levis, the 1-5 Titans’ situation has not unfolded as they hoped. With Tennessee already missing a third-round pick, With a 2025 pick incoming due to the L’Jarius Sneed trade, which hasn’t been favorable so far, it’s crucial to gather more draft capital as the team prepares for significant changes in its offensive lineup during the upcoming offseason.

Amari Cooper Trade Evaluations

Bills Get: WR Amari Cooper, 2025 Sixth-Round Draft Pick

Browns Get: 2025 Third-Round Draft Pick, 2026 Seventh-Round Draft Pick

Bills Evaluation: A-

While the spotlight was on Davante Adams and the Jets, the Bills made an impressive move to acquire a high-caliber wide receiver. The addition of Cooper may drastically enhance a struggling receiving unit, especially after Stefon Diggs was traded to the Texans. Although Khalil Shakir and Keon Coleman showed potential, risking another season of Josh Allen’s best years was not an option. Despite some issues with drops and a need to regain his reliability after facing poor quarterback performances in Cleveland, Cooper presented the best possible option for Buffalo given their salary cap constraints.

Browns Evaluation: B-

The Browns’ trade felt necessary amid their disappointing season, yet it caught some off guard due to the front office’s previous rigidity. Securing a Day 2 draft pick is commendable for a team in dire need of young talent post-Deshaun Watson trade. However, this move scratches the surface of larger issues that need addressing.

Davante Adams Trade Evaluations

Jets Get: WR Davante Adams

Raiders Get: 2025 Conditional Third-Round Draft Pick

Jets Evaluation: B+

It’s reasonable to question the strategy of centering the team around Aaron Rodgers, especially considering the current situation for the Jets. However, that dynamic won’t change until at least the offseason, potentially leading to significant consequences for many involved. A conditional third-round pick is a minor risk for Joe Douglas, who likely won’t have to face repercussions if the Adams trade fails to reverse the team’s downward trend. Even if Adams doesn’t return to his prime performance, his proven ability to create separation and his existing rapport with Rodgers should still be beneficial.

Raiders Evaluation: B-

The Raiders found themselves in a tight spot early in the season as Adams grew increasingly unhappy. They had to seek out the best offer for their star receiver. Not pursuing a trade during the offseason was a significant mistake, and the organization has faced criticism for not capitalizing on an exceptional talent connected to Derek Carr. However, at least their immediate future looks a little clearer now.

This article has been updated with the latest information.